HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX Deep Navy

Overview

When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Deep Navy linear switches offers a fascinating blend of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches stand out with their resonant, clacky sound signature, providing an audibly satisfying experience alongside an exquisitely smooth typing sensation. This makes them an excellent choice for users who enjoy an engaging auditory feedback as they type. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy switches deliver a rich, sharp sound profile, thanks to their full nylon construction and Ly stem, which ensures silky smooth keystrokes. This may appeal to those who prefer a more subdued sound while still enjoying a refined tactile experience. Both linear switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Deep Navy utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom sections of the switches. This shared choice of material indicates that users can expect a similar auditory experience regardless of the color option selected. Nylon, known for being a classic switch housing material, notably contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, thereby creating a rounder and more subdued acoustic character that enhances the overall typing experience in both models.

On both the Caramel Pudding and Deep Navy switches, the nylon bottom housing is integral to the tactile response and bottom-out sound when the keys are pressed. The effects of nylon's softer composition allow for a more muted sound upon bottoming out, which many users find preferable as it reduces the harshness often associated with typing on more rigid materials. Since both models share this nylon bottom housing, users will notice a consistent feel and sound when bottoming out across both color variants, ensuring that comfort and sound quality remain a key feature regardless of the aesthetic choice.

Similarly, the top housings of both the Caramel Pudding and Deep Navy also employ nylon, further contributing to the overall sound profile when keys are released. Once again, this means that the nuances in sound—specifically the auditory result when letting go of a key—will be harmonious between the two switches. Whether pressed or released, the nylon housings guarantee a unified experience characterized by the distinct properties of this material. Therefore, those opting for either the HMX Caramel Pudding or Deep Navy will benefit from a consistent and enjoyable typing experience due to the widely shared material attributes.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, notable differences exist in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light in terms of typing pressure. In contrast, the Deep Navy offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Consequently, the Deep Navy is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more suitable for users who type for extended periods or prefer a less strenuous key press. The Caramel Pudding, being the heavier switch, provides a stronger push feel that may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While both switches offer distinct tactile responses, the differences in their forces mean that users will likely feel a considerable variance in the typing experience, with the Caramel Pudding providing a firmer touch compared to the more feather-light Deep Navy.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Deep Navy linear switches have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that the distance you feel when pressing down on the keys is the same for both switches. As a result, users can expect similar performance and feedback when typing or gaming with either switch, ensuring a consistent experience regardless of which one is chosen. Since both switches have equal travel distances, preferences may instead be guided by other characteristics such as feel or sound rather than travel distance alone.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are recognized for their resonant and clacky sound signature, which makes them particularly satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy switches produce a rich and sharp sound profile, thanks in part to their full nylon construction. While both switches prioritize a distinct auditory experience, the Caramel Pudding may offer a more pronounced clackiness, whereas the Deep Navy presents a clearer and sharper tonal quality, which can be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap choices made.

When examining the feel of each switch, the Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that make typing enjoyable and efficient. On the other hand, the Deep Navy switches also provide a smooth typing feel, enhanced by their Ly stem design, ensuring a similarly effortless keystroke. While both switches share a commitment to smoothness, the Caramel Pudding potentially evokes a warmer feel through its sound profile, while the Deep Navy’s construction may contribute to a more controlled and refined typing experience.

Overall, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Deep Navy linear switches offer appealing sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding excels with its clacky resonance and extraordinarily smooth touch, whereas the Deep Navy impresses with its sharp sound depth and signature silky keystroke. While they may serve distinct auditory and tactile experiences, users can expect a generally satisfying performance from either switch, allowing newcomers to find enjoyment in whichever switch resonates with their typing style or sound preference.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Deep Navy linear switches, consider what type of typing experience you desire. If you prefer a switch that has a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, an exquisitely smooth typing feel, and a resonant, clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding switch would be your go-to choice. It's ideal for those who enjoy a lively auditory and tactile feedback while typing, making it great for both gaming and typing tasks that benefit from a more pronounced sound. Conversely, if you’re looking for a switch that offers a light bottom out force at 45 grams with silky smooth keystrokes and a sharp sound profile, the Deep Navy switch is better suited for you. Its full nylon construction enhances durability while providing a refined typing experience that caters to typists needing less force, making it a fantastic option for prolonged usage without fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preference for sound, feel, and how you intend to use your keyboard, allowing you to enjoy a tailored typing experience that meets your specific needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more